MO HB257

Repeals and replaces nine sections of Missouri law (sections 199.170-199.270) and adds three new sections (199.275, 199.280, 199.290) relating to tuberculosis testing and control.

Establishes new definitions including "directly observed therapy" (DOT), "latent tuberculosis infection," "immediate threat," and "targeted testing program" for identifying high-risk populations.

Creates criminal penalties making it unlawful for persons with active pulmonary or laryngeal tuberculosis to recklessly expose others without consent or report to work while contagious, with violations classified as class B misdemeanor (class A if victim contracts tuberculosis).

Requires all employees and volunteers at health care facilities to receive tuberculin skin tests or interferon-gamma release assay tests upon employment following CDC guidelines, and mandates all Missouri institutions of higher education implement targeted testing programs for on-campus students and faculty upon matriculation.

Allows students who fail to comply with targeted testing programs to lose enrollment in subsequent semesters and authorizes the department of health to contract for patient care with state payment available only after third-party payer benefits are exhausted.